Liberty Public Art Sculpture Program 2020

The Liberty Public Art Sculpture Program is in its fourth year and seeks to expand the city's permanent collection of public art by featuring additional pieces on display for a limited period. Selected sculptures will be on display from September 2020 through September 2021 in Downtown Liberty, MO. The program is open to all artists regardless of location who are at least 18 years of age. All entries must be original work of safe design and construction.

All work must be freestanding and resilient to variant temperatures and outdoor elements for long-term public display. Pieces must be aesthetically appropriate for public places with priority given to safety (no sharp edges, points, breakable components, climbing hazards, or barbed wire) and durability. Sculptures must be able to be structurally secured to a concrete pad with bolts. Materials may include metal, wood, plastic, stone, ceramic, or other durable materials that can withstand regional temperatures ranging from 120°F to -30°F. Height shall not create a balance hazard.

Selected artists will receive a $2,000 honorarium to help defray costs of transportation, installation, and de-installation. Any costs exceeding $2,000 are the artist's responsibility. Artists are responsible for insurance, transporting, installing, and removing their artwork according to the agreed timeline. Selected artwork must be installed by September 18, 2020 and removed the first week of September 2021. Artists may sell their work during the display period, but the City of Liberty has first right of refusal. The City has the option to purchase at least one piece for its permanent collection at a price up to $15,000 less the honorarium.

Submissions must include a completed application with up to five digital images per entry, artist statement, brief biography, professional resume, asking price, and proof of general liability insurance if selected. Each entry must list the artist name, entry title, materials, dimensions, anchoring method, completion date, and a one-paragraph description. Submissions are due by March 31, 2020. Jury notification is expected by June 30, 2020.